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Complex Organic Molecules of NGC 1333 IRAS 2A Protostar (MIRI)
NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope's MIRI (Mid-Infrared Instrument) has identified a wealth of complex, carbon-containing (organic) molecules surrounding two protostars. This graphic shows the spectrum of one of the two protostars, IRAS 2A. It includes the fingerprints of acetaldehyde, ethanol, methyl formate, and likely acetic acid, in the solid phase. These and other molecules detected there by Webb represent key ingredients for making potentially habitable worlds.
Extended Description and Image Alt Text
Extended Description
Graphic titled "NGC 1333 IRAS 2A Protostar, MIRI Medium-Resolution Spectroscopy" shows a graph of optical depth on the y-axis versus wavelength of light in microns on the x-axis. The x-axis ranges from 6.8 microns on the left to 8.6 microns on the right, labeled in even increments of 0.2 microns. The y-axis ranges from 0 on the top to about 0.65 on the bottom, with labeled tick marks at 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6.
A jagged white line with several prominent valleys extends horizontally. Vertical bands in different colors mark different wavelength regions and are labeled with molecular names and formulas.
A cyan band from 6.8 to 7.1 microns is labeled "Ethanol and Methyl Formate." A purple band from 7.1 to 7.3 microns is labeled "Formate Ion and Ethanol." A blue band from 7.3 to 7.5 microns is labeled "Formate Ion and Acetaldehyde." A green band from 7.5 to 7.6 microns is labeled "Cyanate Ion and Sulfur Dioxide." An orange band from 7.6 to 7.7 microns is labeled "Methane." A red band from 7.7 to 7.9 microns is labeled "Ethanol and Acetic Acid." A purple band from 7.9 to 8.5 microns is labeled "Formic Acid and Methyl Formate."
Image Alt Text
Graphic titled "NGC 1333 IRAS 2A Protostar, MIRI Medium-Resolution Spectroscopy" shows a graph of optical depth versus wavelength from 6.8 to 8.6 microns, with a variety of molecules highlighted.
- Release DateMarch 13, 2024
- Science ReleaseCheers! NASA’s Webb Finds Ethanol, Other Icy Ingredients for Worlds
- CreditIllustration: NASA, ESA, CSA, Leah Hustak (STScI)
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Laura Betz
NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center
Greenbelt, Maryland
laura.e.betz@nasa.gov
NASA, ESA, CSA, Leah Hustak (STScI)
